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2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 1
Magazine
2012
2 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 3 Joe Fletcher PhotograPhy
4 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
1 • LandscapingNe t work.com • 2012
Magazine
2012
On THE cOVER: Project
by Z Freedman Landscape
Design. Read the full article
and see more photos of this
project on page 6.
6Landscaping network Magazine 2012Published by LandscapingNetwork.com
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We hope you enjoy.
any photographs, artwork or copy prepared by Landscaping network Magazine may not be reproduced by any means, including electronic, and duplication is strictly prohibited without prior written permission of the publisher.
all rights reserved. © Copyright 2012
Landscapingnetwork.com 1090 5th st., ste. 109 Calimesa, Ca 92320855.624.5110 / 909.795.7704
For even more, visit us online at LandscapingNetwork.com
Newsletter
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 5
6 ciTRus TwisT
An ipe pool deck and orange
walkway put a modern spin on a
California yard
10 dEsign sTylEs
Get ideas for 19 landscape styles
to use yourself or share with clients
during the design process
12 landscapE ElEmEnT
dimEnsiOns
Get an at-a-glance guide to the
dimensions of basketball courts,
bocce ball courts, seat walls,
outdoor kitchen heights & more
16 gREaT pHOTOgRapHy
sElls mORE JObs
Tips from Joe Fletcher Photography
on taking great landscape
photography and how to hire the
right professional
20 pHOTO gallERy
Over 25 pages of inspiring
photographs from landscape
professionals around the country
46 a big splasH
An existing Michigan pool is
remodeled into a tiered retreat with
the addition of a raised pool
52 safE aT HOmE
A hillside garden is brought back to
life following a devastating fire
56 sTROng palETTE
A luxurious outdoor cooking area is
built to entertain—and to withstand
a hurricane
60 gRand ElEVaTiOn
A three-tiered stone waterfall and
vanishing-edge pool create a lush
setting for nature’s beauty
64 ciTy EscapE
A small outdoor living space serves as
an extension of a San Francisco home
68 paRTy HOusE
A boring backyard is transformed
into an entertainer’s delight—
hacienda style
72 mOdERn zEn
A custom water feature and garden
beds create a serene atmosphere
76 THE pROducT lisT
Eleven great products to use in
your landscape design or tell your
clients about
contents
7620 64
5210 7216
12
6 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
The owners of this home have four kids, foster abandoned dogs and admire
funky, modern design. Zack Freedman, of Z Freedman Landscape Design,
enjoyed working with them on this project because “they allowed me a lot of
design freedom and agreed to materials and colors that would be pushing
the envelope for most people.” Freedman worked closely with the home’s
architect to create sustainable site-specific landscapes in both the front and
rear of the home as well as in an inner courtyard.
fROnT yaRd
The front yard was a challenge because of poor drainage that often led to
flooding. “When wet, the soil became very spongy and could sink up to 6
inches,” Freedman explains. His solution was to create a walkway that also
served as a drainage channel. The ground was dug out to a depth of 1 foot,
filled with a layer of white pebbles and then enclosed with a fiberglass grate.
The orange grate boardwalk adds dramatic color to the landscape and solves
the drainage problem. At night LED lights shine up through the voids in the
grates, creating a unique glow.
In keeping with the architecture of the home, smooth stucco walls were used
along the perimeter of the property. “On this project, I had the chance to
explore what a wall or fence could be,” says Freedman. At the entrance to
the home, he opted for a screen of vertical rebar rather than a solid wall. The
wall of rebar still provides enclosure for the inner courtyard, but in a visually
permeable fashion. As the crowning touch, climbing vines grow up the rebar,
transforming it into a living sculpture.
Instead of a high-maintenance and water-thirsty lawn, artificial grass from
Syn Lawn was installed in the front yard. Artificial grass is very durable and
holds up well under the abuse of the dogs that the family fosters.
cOuRTyaRd
Much like an oversized terrarium, the inner courtyard can be viewed through
floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room and is intended for viewing, not
entering. A tall stucco privacy wall serves as the background for a succulent-
covered mound with a Palo Verde tree growing from the center. “Designing
by saRaH TaTE / LANDSCAPINGNETWORk.COM COLuMNIST
citrus twistAn ipe pool deck And orAnge wAlkwAy put A modern spin on A cAliforniA yArd
d E s i g n i n s p i R aT i O n
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 7
designer sPotlight
8 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 9
the courtyard was the most fun because I was able to cross over into the
world of art,” Freedman says. Gazing out upon the courtyard, with its broad
sweeps of color, is like looking at a three-dimensional modern interpretation
of a Van Gogh painting.
backyaRd
The centerpiece of the backyard is the swimming pool and ipe deck. “The
clients wanted something different than a typical concrete pool deck,”
Freedman says. Ipe, a tropical hardwood, was selected for its durability and
contemporary style. “It is the perfect material for bringing warmth to a large
outdoor surface,” he explains. The pool is accessed via large sliding doors
that open onto a long terrace with an integrated gas fire feature that doubles
as a barbeque.
Built-in seating areas surround the pool, providing plenty of space for
the family to spread out and enjoy the outdoors. “I prefer built-in seating
because it creates a cleaner look, helps to designate space and is great for
maximizing small yards,” says Freedman.
A monolithic concrete bench runs lengthwise between the terrace and pool,
while two wood benches with backrests top the low wall on the opposite
side. Bright outdoor cushions add a burst of playful color to the space.
At the far end of the pool, a raised deck was built around an existing
magnolia tree. This deck houses an automatic pool cover and is
compartmentalized to provide storage for cushions and the kids’ toys. Just
past the deck is a play area that includes an adjustable-height basketball
hoop. Two raised vegetable garden beds are also incorporated in this portion
of the yard. Future plans for the property include the installation of a steel
water feature and the construction of a chicken coop.
landscapE pROfEssiOnal
Z Freedman Landscape Design / Venice, Calif.
website: www.zfreedmandesign.com
ProjeCt highLights
LoCation: Venice Beach, Calif.
Lot size: 13,000 square feet
Budget: over $100,000
CLient requests > > >
• A pool
• plenty of seAting
• open spAce for kids And pets
• low-mAintenAnce plAnts
designer sPotlight
10 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
Aruba Canvas Coal
DECOR
MATERIALS
FABRICS
PLANT PALETTE
MODERN: ART DECO LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Hollywood isn't the only place associated with elegance and glamour. Art deco homes are a lot like celebs...influenced by a lot of people and photographed often. Luckily when an art deco home needs to be remodeled, it might get a makeover but it doesn't have to go to rehab. For more garden design ideas, visit: www.landscapingnetwork.com/garden-styles
Citrus New Zealand Flax CannaBird of Paradise CactusOrchid
Sphere Circular LightingGabion FormsSlate Fountain
StuccoGlass BlocksPoured Concrete Stainless Steel
PHOTO: www.realmenvironments.com; COLORS: www.benjaminmoore.com; DECOR:www.landscapingnetwork.com, www.shadesofgreenla.com, www.elysianlandscapes.com, www.andrasite.net; MATERIALS: www. archithings.net, www.galleryhomedesign.blogspot.com, www.psdgraphics.com, www.apptekstucco.com; PLANTS: www.monrovia.com; FABRICS: www.sunbrella.com
Festive Orange Snow Cone Green
Jet Black Metallic Silver
styleLandscapedesignsheets
10 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 11
Use these sheets to help determine whAt lAndscApe style
is best sUited for A pArticUlAr home And design tAstes
Trying to understand a client’s design style is a lot like going on a road trip
without a map. It’s fun and exciting to start out, much like the beginning
of a project when the client shares their likes and dislikes. However, it can
become time-consuming and costly if you don’t know exactly where you’re
headed. “It’s the difference between having a map to the destination, and
having to draw the route based on questions and insights you gain from
the client,” says landscape designer and author Maureen Gilmer. “We hear
familiar words and phrases, such as ‘we want something modern’ or ‘very
natural looking,’” says Gilmer, “but in reality, that’s so vague and the cost of
misinterpretation is high.”
Like a good guidebook can enhance a European vacation, these handy
design sheets can help in the decision-making process by presenting the
characteristics of 19 distinct landscape styles at a glance. Each sheet
showcases a particular landscape design and provides a color palette, a
list of materials, plant recommendations, and décor and outdoor fabric
suggestions. Once your clients choose a favorite style, you can help them
expand on what is shown and make sure that the desired look is appropriate
for the region and the architecture of the home. They are the ideal companion
for landscape professionals to share with clients as a starting point for
choosing a design.
19 popUlAr design styles
From Southwestern style to Mid-Century Modern, you’ll find ideas and
inspiration in these five themed categories:
downLoad&print
Hendrix Clay Weston Ginger
DECOR
MATERIALS
FABRICS
PLANT PALETTE
TRADITIONAL: CRAFTSMAN LANDSCAPE DESIGN
The Woodworkers Association concurs, it takes a craftsman to build a craftsman. While you're hand-hammering your copper sink, remember to stop and smell the Magnolia tree and reflect on a time when the hand-made was preferred over the mass-produced. For more garden design ideas, visit: www.landscapingnetwork.com/garden-styles
PassionflowerAcanthus BergeniaNandina EugeniaDaylily
Hammered Copper Fire Pit Wood GateCeramic Pots Adirondack
Copper GuttersWood Siding Bronze Hardware Cobblestone
PHOTO: www.jasdesignbuild.com; COLORS: www.benjaminmoore.com; DECOR: www.adirondackchaironline.com, www.seasonallivingokc.com, www.serenityhealth.com, www.prowellwoodworks.com; MATERIALS: www.landscapingnetwork.com, www.landscapingnetwork.com, www.prowellwoodworkds.com, www.landscapecapecod.com; PLANTS: www.monrovia.com; FABRICS: www.sunbrella.com
Baked Terra Cotta Bright Gold
Fresh Olive Cool Mint
PLANTS: www.monrovia.com, www,landscapingnetwork,com; FABRICS: www.sunbrella.com
Electric Orange Dearborn Tan
Sweet Honeydew Melon Cool Lava
Dolce Mango
DECOR
MATERIALS
FABRICS
PLANT P ALETTE
TROPICAL: SOUTH PACIFIC LANDSCAPE DESIGN
It's 1958...love blooms between a young nurse and a secretive Frenchman. The island is iconic. The combination of bamboo, teak, thatch, tiki and wicker are an instant revival. While you'r e enjoying your umbrella drink, try not to break out into song. For more garden design ideas, visit: www.landscapingnetwork.com/garden-styles
Canvas Sunfl ower Yellow
Colocasia Orchid Banana Dracaena CannaBougainvillea
Tiki Terracotta Urns Asian Figures Thatch Umbr ella
Thatch Teak Furniture Teak Planks Bamboo
PHOTO: www.knibbdesign.com; COLORS: www.benjaminmoore.com; DECOR: www.landscapingnetwork.com, www.studioh-inc.com, www.bellacor.com, www.mcallen.com; MATERIALS: www.homeimprovement.com, www.ncma.org, www.bourgetbros.com, www.canterastonedesign.com; PLANTS: www.monrovia.com; FABRICS: www.sunbrella.com
Brilliant Blue Baked Terra Cotta
Classic Brown Oxford White
Plaster
Kamal Chestnut
DECOR
MATERIALS
FABRICS
PLANT PALETTE
MEDITERRANEAN: SPANISH LANDSCAPE DESIGN
The only thing missing on the sunset-colored pavers of a Spanish-styled abode is the clip-clop of a famous black horse and its enduringly handsome masked rider. Hail to the cavaliers that harbor amongst the bougainvillea and tiered fountains of the hacienda. For more garden design ideas, visit: www.landscapingnetwork.com/garden-styles
Tiered Spanish Fountains Urns Carved Cantera FormsMoorish Lanterns
Saltillo TilesSlump Block Cantera Stone
Mediterranean Fan Palm Citrus Agave CactusPomegranate Bougainvillea
Pacific Blue
Bent Willow Furniture Wicker BirdhouseWishing Well
Brannon Redwood Rib Sky Blue
DECOR
MATERIALS
FABRICS
PLANT PALETTE
COUNTRY: FARMHOUSE LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Warm and lovely days, lemonade, and picket fences are reminiscent of the country farmhouse. In the evenings, while you sip spirits on the lightly lit porch, you might hear the soft neigh of a horse. If you listen carefully, you just might hear John Walton call out, "Good night, John-Boy." For more garden design ideas, visit: www.landscapingnetwork.com/garden-styles
Spiraea Butterfly Bush AzaleaShrub Roses WisteriaHydrangea
Painted WoodWhite Picket Fence Post & Rail White Fence Wood Tiles
PHOTO: www. kaadesigngroup.com; COLORS: www.benjaminmoore.com; DECOR: www.rustichomestead.com, www.directpatiofurniture.com, www.plannersguide.com, www.thebirdhousebarn.com; MATERIALS: www.fencegatess.com, www.eadsfence.com, www.rklastudio.com, www.detroitgardenworks.com; PLANTS: www.monrovia.com; FABRICS: www.sunbrella.com
Rust Blanched Almond
Soft Sky White Diamond
Landscapedesignsheets Quest
the entire collection of 19 landscape styles is available at
www.landscapingnetwork.com/styles
Mediterranean
Spanish
Tuscan
French
Southwest
troPiCaL
South Pacific
Asian
Coastal
coUntry
Farmhouse
Victorian
Ranch
Rustic
Modern
Art Deco
Modern
Mid-Century
traditionaL
Colonial
Saltbox
Townhouse
English
Craftsman
12 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
36”
30”
10”
42”-46”
28”
Landscape Design Dimensions
At-A-GlAnce
having trouble remembering the standard height of a
countertop? not sure how tall to make a seat wall? use
our illustrations to quickly look up the measurements
of the most popular backyard amenities, available at:
Landscapingnetwork.com/infographics
cOunTERTOps
allow for placement of a serving platter between each accessory or appliance on the counter. a good rule of thumb is 16". if a bartender or caterer will be stationed at the counter regularly, leave 3-4 feet of working space around each.
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 13
20”
4’
4’
10’
2.5’
48”
DECOMPOSED GRANITE/CONCRETE STEPSPERSPECTIVE
BY: RENEE’ BROWN
see more UsefUl illUstrAtions online At > > LANDSCAPINGNETWORk.COM/INFOGRAPHICS
FLAGSTONE PATHPERSPECTIVEBY: RENEE’ BROWN
sEaT walls
industry standard for adult seating is 18-22 inches tall and 12-18 inches wide.
to accommodate for children use these guidelines:
age seat height
1 to 4 years 10" - 12"
5 to 7 years 12" - 14"
8 to 13 years 13" - 18"
14 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
Sport Court DimensionsAt-A-GlAnce
when you need to build some fun into the backyard, use this handy
reference guide for standard dimensions of backyard sport courts and
games, available at Landscapingnetwork.com/infographics
see aLL sPort Court diMensions at > > LANDSCAPINGNETWORk.COM/INFOGRAPHICS
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 15
16 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
SellS More JobS
GreatPhotoGraPhy
Want to present yourself in the best light to clients? alWays include superb photography of your Work.
by Jim peterson, president, landscapingnetWork.com
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 17
everywhere i go lAtely,
people are talking about the
wonders of fabulous photography
in helping products (or projects, in
the case of landscape professionals)
stand out from the crowd. At
this year’s Internet Retailers
Conference in San Diego, Nastygal.
com site owner Sophia Amoruso
expressed that a central reason
for the explosive growth of her
site is the dramatic, professional
photography showing the clothing,
shoes, and accessories that her
site sells. Several other successful
presenting retailers at the
conference mentioned the same
thing: Photography matters! Big,
bold, high-resolution photography
sells product. I asked Joe Fletcher,
owner of Joe Fletcher Photography
and, in my opinion, one of the
finest architectural and landscape
architecture photographers on
the planet, to give landscape
professionals some tips for better
photography.
Joe’s tips for better
lAndscApe photogrAphy
If you plan on taking the photos
yourself, here are the secrets to
achieving the best results.
slightly hazy days can be ideal for taking photographs by reducing the dynamic range While keeping definition. this home is situated along the california coast.
18 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
this photo Was taken at the optimum position for this proJect: far enough back and high enough (a 10-foot ladder Was used) to see across the pool, through the kitchen, and into the backyard.
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 19
• Have and use a tripod. Not only will
it give you a better depth of field, it
also aids careful composition.
• If possible, use tilt-shift lenses
to frame the composition in the
lens. Adjusting for perspective
in processing can yield some
unexpected bad results and diminish
image quality.
• Get down low. In most cases, a
lower view looks better.
• Take a mixture of vertical,
horizontal, wide, and detailed shots.
When people view a set of images,
they often find a shift in format and
distance more engaging.
• Does it make a good picture?
Don’t assume that what you
appreciate in a project makes a good
photograph. Not all things translate
well. A good trick is to squint when
looking for a composition. This
abstracts your view and increases
contrast, which aid in visualizing the
composition.
• The best time to take landscaping
photos is during the hours just
before sunrise and just after sunset.
The light spectrum is wonderful, and
you avoid direct sunlight.
• It’s okay to include people in
your pictures, as long as they don’t
become the focus. The point is to
highlight the landscape and the
design, without spoiling the serenity.
• Make a list of things to do to get
the property ready for the shoot.
Make sure all light bulbs are working
and that all debris is cleaned up.
You want the site to be sparse; less
is more.
hiring A professionAl
PhotograPher
The experience of a professional
landscape architecture photographer
can be invaluable, especially if you
want to submit your project for
award consideration or publication
in magazines. Professionals carry
gear and have tricks that will aid in
getting good shots, even when the
lighting is complex or poor. Most
of all, professionals will ensure that
nothing goes wrong in taking the
pictures, should you have limited
access and or time to document the
project. Additional reasons to hire a
professional:
• For web and electronic use, low
resolution and cheap optics may
suffice, but for prints and for award
and magazine submissions they
won’t do the project justice.
• Pros have a distance from the
project, and an understanding of
what publishers are looking for.
This perspective helps in creating a
good set of images to represent the
project and relate what’s important.
When hiring a professional, take
care to match the photographer’s
style and aesthetic to the project.
No matter how professional the
photographer, the pictures will look
much better when these are in sync.
Also, share insights of what you are
looking for with your photographer.
You don’t want to miss
photographing anything important.
A photographer owns the copyrights
of the photos he takes, and will
sell image usage for your in-house
use (brochures, web, Facebook,
award and magazine submissions).
Sometimes other parties on the
project can share in the work for an
additional percentage, which can
make professional photography
less expensive for all parties. If
you intend to submit your work
to magazines, be careful of
publishing the photos on the web.
The magazines will generally want
exclusivity.
Joe Fletcher lives in Northern
California but travels extensively for
photography assignments. Visit his
website at www.joefletcherphoto.
com and follow his work on
Facebook under Joe Fletcher
Photography.
looking through trees at a proJect, Where you are seeing something manmade Juxtaposed against the natural World,
highlights the beauty in both.
20 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
GalleryLandscaping
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 21
Landscaping
ShadeS of Green L andScape architecture
> www.shadesofgreenla.com
22 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
GalleryLandscaping
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 23
Zaremba & company L andScape
> www.zarembaandco.com
24 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
GalleryLandscaping
huettL L andScape architecture
> www.huettldesign.com
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 25
huettL L andScape architecture
> www.huettldesign.com
26 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
GalleryLandscaping
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 27
anthony exter L andScape deSiGn
> www.anthonyexter.com
28 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
Grace deSiGn aSSociateS
> www.gracedesignassociates.com
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 29
GalleryLandscaping
L andScapinG network
> www.landscapingnetwork.com
30 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 31
amS L andScape deSiGn StudioS
> www.amslandscapedesign.com
32 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
L andScape deveLopment inc
> www.landscapedevelopment.com
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 33
GalleryLandscaping
the Green Scene
> www.greenscenelandscape.com
34 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
Z freedman L andScape deSiGn
> www.zfreedmandesign.com
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 35
neave Group outdoor SoLutionS
> www.neavelandscaping.com
36 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
GalleryLandscaping
miraGe L andScape
> www.miragelandscape.com
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 37
di Zock GardenS
> www.dizockgardens.com
38 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 39
ameLia b. L ima & aSSociateS
> www.ameliab.com
40 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
L andScapinG net work
> www.landscapingnetwork.com
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 41
GalleryLandscaping
Joe fLetcher photoGraphy
> www.joefletcherphoto.com
42 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
david pederSen L andScape architect
> www.dplandscape.com
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 43
SubLime Garden deSiGn
> www.sublimegardendesign.com
44 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
GalleryLandscaping
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 45
accent L andScapeS
> www.accentlandscapesinc.com
46 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
This high-end swimming pool makeover has it all: a vanishing edge, a luxury
spa, an outdoor fireplace, a large pool house with a full kitchen, a waterslide
and much more. If you’re thinking “I could never afford that,” there are still
plenty of ideas you can get from this pool remodel even if you don’t have the
funds, says project designer Patrick Zaremba, of Detroit-area Zaremba &
Company. He even offers some tips on ways to lower your costs (see “Get
This Look on a Budget” on page 51).
dEsign gOals
The owners of this Plymouth, Mich., property wanted to upgrade their exist-
ing pool into a space that would better accommodate young children and
outdoor entertaining. They also requested that the new design blend with
their home’s architecture and have the atmosphere of a tropical retreat. Their
wish list included:
More shallow play areas in the pool.
A larger pool house with changing rooms, shower and kitchen.
A waterslide.
Two removable basketball hoops.
Some gas tiki torches.
pROJEcT cHallEngEs
Zaremba doesn’t particularly like the word “challenge.” He believes that every
job comes with its own set of unique circumstances that must be addressed
and that these are just a normal part of landscape design work. Whether you
see them as challenges or not, Zaremba and his team generated creative
ideas to transform this once average, slightly awkward pool into an unbeliev-
able outdoor living space.
Zaremba’s first step was clearly communicating his vision for the project to
the homeowner. Then he got to work executing his vision, addressing such
issues as:
Working around the deep existing pool.
Overlapping a new shallow pool at a higher elevation.
Creating a “common language” between the design of the garden and the
architecture of the pool house and home.
by saRaH TaTE / LANDSCAPINGNETWORk.COM COLuMNIST
a Big spLash
ss
ss
ss
ss
An existing michigAn swimming pool is remodeled into A tiered retreAt with the Addition of A rAised pool
d E s i g n i n s p i R aT i O n
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 47
48 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
pROJEcT sOluTiOns
Instead of demolishing or simply remodeling the existing pool, Zaremba
chose to construct a second pool that would overlap the original one at
a higher elevation. The new raised pool, which has a vanishing edge that
spills into the old one, has shallow space at both ends where the kids can
play basketball. To put the original pool, which was not well-suited for play
because of its depth, to better use, a custom waterslide was added.
“Achieving this unique overlapping design required retaining walls to be built
and the shallow wall of the existing pool to be reconstructed to ensure proper
alignment with the new pool,” explains Zaremba. Much of the planning work
for this aspect of the project was outsourced to a structural engineering
firm to make sure everything was done just right. “We also had to address
the fact that the original pool was not perfectly square. Granite coping was
used to hide this and create a ‘common language’ between the two bodies of
water,” he adds.
Other ways Zaremba unified the pool, garden and buildings on this property
included:
using the same granite block for the retaining walls as for the exterior of
the pool house.
using 2 x 2-foot granite pavers for the pool deck and interior pool house
flooring.
Constructing all the walls to be capped at the same height.
Incorporating horizontal decorative bands of limestone and granite into the
walls.
Matching the column that supports the overhanging pool house roof to the
ss
ss
s
s
style of the home.
Incorporating a NanaWall system (an opening glass wall) so that the corner
of the pool house opens wide to the pool.
Another circumstance that Zaremba worked hard to address was clearly
communicating his vision to the client. “Because this project required moving
a large volume of dirt and was hard to visualize, I wanted to ensure that the
homeowner had a full grasp of what I was proposing before he agreed to it,”
he says. Luckily, there was already a high level of trust between Zaremba and
the client because they had worked together previously on other areas of the
property. But this didn’t change how thorough Zaremba was with the presen-
tation of his plans for the makeover. “I created three-dimensional sketch-up
models using computer software, and set out grading stakes and string lines
to help him see the position and elevation of things. There were times where I
know he was thinking, ‘The wall is going to be how tall?’ but at the end of the
day it all came together quite nicely,” he says.
adding THE final TOucHEs
To create the feel of a contemporary tropical retreat, Zaremba accessorized
with sleek outdoor furniture, planted containers and gas-lit tiki torches.
“When creating outdoor rooms that feel intuitive, you have to start with the
end in mind,” he says. For example, from the beginning of the project Za-
remba knew where the best spot was for chaise lounges to receive optimum
sunlight, and he designed the layout of the remodeled pool deck accordingly.
The gas-fueled outdoor fireplace and landscape lighting enhance the dining
and lounging atmospheres well into the evening.
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 49
This pool makeover for a residence
in Plymouth, Mich., was not a run-
of-the-mill project. Patrick Zaremba,
a landscape designer and project
manager based near Detroit, calls
this job, which involved elevating a
new pool above an existing one and
installing a unique paving system
with hidden drainage, the highlight of
his 20-year career.
ElEVaTing THE nEw pOOl
The decision to stack a second pool
3 feet above and perpendicular
to the original one meant that
retaining walls had to be built and
large amounts of dirt would need
to be moved to reach the desired
elevation. “This project required a
higher level of technical expertise
than is typical on residential
projects,” Zaremba says. “We had to
work hard to make sure that we had
thought out every detail on paper
and were always staying ahead of
the construction.”
Zaremba had the raised pool
concept in mind, but wasn’t
sure how to make it work, so he
outsourced the technical work to
a structural engineering company.
“In order to successfully execute a
project of this complexity and detail
it, I knew this was a requirement
> the design & construction of A bi-level swimming pool
that had to be factored into the job,”
Zaremba says.
The engineers assessed the
structure of the existing pool and
provided technical expertise for
conjoining the existing pool with
the proposed pool above it. They
recommended removing and
rebuilding the entire shallow wall
from the bottom up and provided
specific details for construction.
Additional outside professionals,
such as surveying engineers, were
utilized throughout the project to
ensure accurate layout, elevations
and control points. “The engineers
were out several times during the
construction—before we poured the
wall footings and after—to double
check the work,” says Zaremba.
Because of a drastic elevation
change between the home and
existing pool, Zaremba and his crew
ended up using retaining walls on
either side of the new pool to create
a level plateau. He calls the wall that
divides the two pools “the spine
wall” because it runs through the
center of the design and supports
the structure of the entire project.
A vanishing edge and wide steps
leading to the sun deck were also
incorporated into the spine wall.
an inside Look:
A before shot of the existing pool.
50 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
Two additional independent walls,
that when completed appear to
be seat walls, were built on the far
side of the pool area. They were
backfilled and graded so that only
1 ½ to 3 feet of the walls remained
exposed. These walls were key to
creating a level area around the
new pool that would connect the
residence to the pool area.
pEdEsTal paVing sysTEm
For the pool deck paving, Zaremba
wanted to achieve a clean, elegant
look. He opted to use a pedestal
paving system that would allow
the surface to be uninterrupted
by drains and remain completely
level, as opposed to the traditional
technique of slightly pitching a
pool deck. “We suspended rather
than mortared the 2x2-foot granite
pavers over concrete. Water flows
through the open joints and drains
via a subsurface drainage system,”
explains Zaremba.
This type of paving system is
typically used on rooftops, and can
be costly. But for the right client,
it’s a great upsell, according to
Zaremba, because it tremendously
Granite pavers installed on a pedestal system allow water to flow through the open joints and into a hidden channel drain in the pool deck.
improves the look of a pool deck.
Another issue with the pool deck
paving that Zaremba had to address
was how to adjoin the smooth,
square pavers with the rough-cut
granite block walls. “Simply abutting
the pavers to the wall and mortaring
the awkward gap between them
would have ruined the clean, elegant
look that we were trying to achieve
with the pedestal system,” he says.
Instead, Zaremba decided to grind
out a narrow channel in the bottom
of the walls and slide the pavers
underneath, which completely hid
the transition from one material to
the next. “Because there is little
forgiveness with a sophisticated
hardscape, the goal was to keep
the gap between the pavers and the
block tight, somewhere between 1/4
and 3/8 of an inch,” says Zaremba.
Zaremba’s willingness to call in
experts and his keen attention
to detail paid off in the end. The
homeowners love their revamped
pool and use the outdoor living space
frequently to play with their children
and entertain friends. The project has
also received attention from regional
publications and award committees.
an inside Look:ProjeCt highLights
• An elevated 61x22-foot
pool installed 3 feet above an
existing pool
• pedestal paving system for
the 7,700-square-foot pool
deck to hide drains
• retaining walls that double
as seat walls
• vanishing edge incorporated
into the spine wall allows
water to spill from the upper
pool into the lower one
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 51
get this look on A bUdget
if you’re on a budget for your pool project, zaremba
has the following suggestions:
• instead of custom-built walls, use a manufactured
block system and cover it in vines.
• replace the costly granite pavers with stamped
concrete or exposed aggregate.
• forgo the pedestal paving system and use
traditional drainage solutions, such as drains and
pitching the decking slightly.
• skip the pool’s custom rim flow edge and opt for
a basic coping.
landscapE pROfEssiOnal
zaremba & Company / Clarkston, Mich.
website: www.zarembaandco.com
52 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
It’s hard to believe that less than four years ago this thriving landscape was a
plot of bare, scorched earth. In November 2008, the Santa Barbara Tea Fire
raged through the small valley where this home is located. While the house
was spared, the gardens surrounding it were essentially destroyed, leaving
the owners wondering if they should stay or go. Enter Margie Grace, of Grace
Design Associates, a woman whose official title is landscape designer, but
who also assumed the role of restorer and protector on this project. Through
her work, she lifted the homeowner’s spirits by creating a beautiful fire-safe
landscape that offers peace of mind and enjoyment.
dEsign gOals
When Grace first arrived at this property, the scene was quite bleak. Most of
the vegetation had been thoroughly burned or badly damaged by the extreme
heat. A few oak, sycamore, pepper and olive trees, as well as some pre-
existing hardscape elements, managed to survive the flames. Looking on the
positive side, the homeowners chose to view this as an opportunity to tailor
the gardens to their way of life.
“They had only lived in the house a few months and felt that they had not
made the garden their own,” says Grace. In order to develop a design, she
spent time getting to know what the clients were looking for in their new
garden and what the site would allow.
The homeowner had requested plants with vivid color, specifically orange
blooms. “Sometimes such a colorful garden doesn’t sit well in the bigger set-
ting,” says Grace, “but this property is so secluded, basically tucked away in
its own little world, that it works.” She suggests using a color wheel to select
shades that will complement each other, saying that opposites are a safe bet.
The bright blooms in this garden also encourage pollination.
With burnt, bare hillsides and an approaching rainy season, time was of the
essence. Wanting to avoid any erosion or slippage, Grace addressed the most
vulnerable slopes first. Dry-stacked stone walls were built to terrace areas that
would be used as patios. Additionally, plants with extensive root systems were
used to provide erosion control in steep areas that had been denuded by the fire.
by saRaH TaTE / LANDSCAPINGNETWORk.COM COLuMNIST
safe at hoMeA hillside gArden is brought bAck to life following A devAstAting fire
d E s i g n i n s p i R aT i O n
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safETy cHallEngEs
“In the situation of a wildfire, you want the trucks to stage at your house,”
says Grace. When the fire department selects a home as their base, this
means that it is the safest house around. In order to improve the fire safety of
this property, Grace addressed three issues: reducing the amount of com-
bustible fuel, increasing access and providing a convenient water source.
In order to decrease the property’s fuel load, Grace focused on creating
defensible space and using fire-resistant plants. “Cal Fire requires 30 feet
of lean, clean and green space directly around a home,” she explains. This
ensures that there isn’t highly combustible tinder under the eaves. She also
increased the amount of hardscape near the house by installing new patios
and walks made of native sandstone, gravel, decomposed granite and
flagstone. These patios and walks create space between plantings, which
reduces the chance that fire will spread.
Container groupings planted with succulents were used to add life and color
near the house. “We used succulents because of their rich color composi-
tion, low fuel load and rich moisture content,” says Grace. Plants on the rest
of the property were also selected for their fire-resistant qualities, including
the ability to store water, extensive root systems, limited production of dead
material, ability to withstand drought, low levels of oils or resins, and ability to
resprout after a fire.
Another aspect of fire safety is access. “Fire trucks must be able to get in
close to your home and turn around easily,” Grace points out. Solving the ac-
cess problem involved increasing the size of the gravel motor court by 25%,
making it wide enough to serve as a fire break. The larger area also permitted
more design flexibility. “Increasing the size of the motor court allowed us to
create a more generous entryway by extending the front stoop with bricks
salvaged from the site,” says Grace.
pROViding a waTER sOuRcE
Having an accessible water source greatly increases a home’s fire safety.
While a full-sized in-ground pool was not an option because of the steep
terrain, a small body of water for taking a quick dip was appealing to the
homeowners. Grace elected to install a cedar spool. “It’s bigger than a spa
and smaller than a pool,” she explains. Measuring 10 by 12 feet, the new pool
holds twice the water of the hot tub that was burned in the fire and has a gas-
powered pump and hoses, which firefighters can quickly hook up to.
“I selected the cedar tub for its site-appropriate, natural appearance, its abil-
ity to flex with minor shifts of the slope and the fact that it would not require
extensive engineering to install,” she says. The spool sits against a backdrop
of stone and boulders that support the hillside. A pair of wooden chaise
lounges with white cushions and colorful pillows, along with variegated flax
and asparagus fern, create a tropical atmosphere around the pool.
In the end, Grace Design Associates provided these Santa Barbara area
residents with more than just a beautiful garden. They now have a place they
feel safe in, a place full of life and color, and a place that demonstrates the
resiliency of the land and the human spirit.
landscapE pROfEssiOnal
Grace Design Associates / Santa Barbara, Calif.
website: www.gracedesignassociates.com
ProjeCt highLights
LoCation: santa Barbara, Calif.
Lot size: 3 acres
Budget: $130,000
CLient requests > > >
• A fire-safe landscape
• low-maintenance plants and materials
• A rural, unfussy atmosphere
• A place to grow vegetables
• A riot of color
Pro tiPs > > >
when in a fire-hazard area, check your plant selections against
a list from your local fire department.
when growing plants on a hillside, use drip irrigation with a slow
application rate and create planting wells at the base of plants
to give the water enough time to penetrate to the roots instead
of running wastefully down the hillside.
56 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
pROJEcT backgROund
The original landscape for this home in Baton Rouge, La., was installed over
15 years ago. But the plants had suffered through hurricanes Gustav and
katrina, says Jared Jones, a landscape architect at Angelo’s Lawn-Scape of
Louisiana.
“This home’s backyard wasn’t being used to its fullest potential,” says
Jones. The yard had an existing pool with green water and many overgrown
plants. At first, the company was hired only to do a pool renovation, but as
the homeowners began to realize the potential of their yard as an outdoor
entertaining space, the plans expanded.
HOmEOwnER REquEsTs
After seeing the renovated replastered pool, complete with a brick water
feature wall, the homeowners began to think of their backyard as a place
to entertain large groups of people. They told Jones that they wanted an
outdoor kitchen and a fireplace built next to the pool. In addition, they
wanted top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, and high-tech audio/visual
equipment.
“This backyard kitchen is an entertainer’s dream,” says Jones. “You can have
the football game on in the kitchen or listen to John Mayer by the pool.”
dEsign cHallEngEs
The biggest challenge on this project was the time schedule. “Because of
the deadline, we ran utilities and poured concrete before the homeowners
had picked out all the appliances,” explains Jones. He warns that this
untraditional approach takes some creativity and flexible planning. “We
came up with a general kitchen layout that we used for the initial phase of
construction. Because of our forethought, the appliances selected by the
client all had access to the appropriate utilities,” he explains.
Jones only recommends this approach if absolutely necessary. It is much
better to know exactly which appliances you are using before beginning
construction.
by saRaH TaTE / LANDSCAPINGNETWORk.COM COLuMNIST
strong paLetteA luxurious outdoor cooking AreA is built to entertAin—And to withstAnd A hurricAne
d E s i g n i n s p i R aT i O n
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HuRRicanE-pROOf cOnsTRucTiOn
According to Louisiana building codes, all structures must be built to
withstand winds up to 150 miles per hour. Since the structure Jones
designed has a solid wall and roof, it was treated just the same as a house.
“We had to pull all the same permits and go through all the same inspections
that a homebuilder does,” says Jones. The structure has a full foundation
with 3-foot-deep footings. The walls are wood-framed and wrapped on both
sides with brick.
final TOucHEs
The style of this project was derived from the home’s architecture. “We
used a combination of brick, stone, metal and wood to create a warmth and
quality in keeping with the high-end home,” explains Jones. One of the most
unique features of the outdoor kitchen is the large island. “The cabinets
are made of Spanish Cedar, which is rot-resistant outdoors. The solid roof
allowed us to paint them with a faux finish that would not have been feasible
otherwise,” he says.
Another striking element is the large copper hood that hangs over the grill.
Over the years the copper will develop a beautiful patina, but Jones believes
that it will never turn completely green because it is not directly exposed to
the elements. “Proper ventilation was incredibly important since the structure
had a solid roof and walls,” he explains. Jones prefers using commercial-
grade hood vents to remove smoke from the grilling area.
landscapE pROfEssiOnal
Angelo’s Lawn-Scape of Louisiana / Baton Rouge, La.
website: www.angeloslawnscape.com
ProjeCt highLights
Budget: $150,000
sqUAre feet of oUtdoor kitchen: 700
LoCation: Baton rouge, La.
aPPLianCes & audio/VisuaL equiPMent
• kalamazoo keg tapper and refrigerator
• kalamazoo double drawer freezer
• kalamazoo clear ice maker
• dcs warming drawer
• dcs double side gas burner
• dcs gas grill
• 46-inch samsung led tvs
• hd cable boxes
• proficient Audio flush-mount ceiling speakers
• proficient 80-watt stereo receiver
• proficient rock speakers placed throughout the landscape
• sonos zone controller
impAct of bAton roUge’s climAte
• strict construction codes to withstand hurricanes
• humid in summer, so materials have to tolerate moisture
• heavy rainfall, so a covered shelter is needed
60 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
This upscale estate-style home was built with two primary landscaping
goals in mind: provide a water feature that would help drown out the noise
of a nearby highway and create a luxurious outdoor space for entertaining.
Initially, that doesn’t seem like a tall order. But there was one big hitch: a 26-
foot elevation change from a slope in the backyard down to the level of the
home.
The innovative solution employed by landscaping design-build firm Cipriano
Landscape Design was to use column-like pieces of stone to create a multi-
tiered landscape with two 7-foot waterfalls, one that flows into the swim-
ming pool and another that flows over a vanishing edge down to the home’s
patio. This plan not only accommodated the steep elevation change, it also
integrated the hardscape seamlessly into a natural setting. “In addition, the
homeowners enjoy views of the waterfalls and natural vanishing edge from
every vantage point,” says Bill Moore of Cipriano Landscape Design, the
landscape architect for the project.
dEsign gOals
The inspiration for the vertical arrangement of the stone came from a boating
trip Cipriano Landscape Design owner Chris Cipriano took on the Hudson
River. “I noticed the verticality of the outcroppings on a cliff overlooking the
river and came up with this idea for the pool’s waterfalls and vanishing edge.
With a picture as proof that the results would look outstanding, I proposed
the idea to the homeowner, and we were on our way.”
The homeowners also wanted to create a space large enough to entertain
large groups of people. So in addition to the tiered waterfalls, the landscape
plan includes a spa, an outdoor fireplace, a full-service kitchen and bar, a
koi pond, and a large dining patio. “The spacious dining and outdoor kitchen
area balances the exhibition of nature with a slightly more refined style that
fosters luxury entertainment for friends and family,” says Cipriano.
pROJEcT cHallEngEs
“Our main concern as we completed the hardscaping was the tremendous
amount of stone used on the project (approximately 1,000 tons). The home
by annE balOgH / LANDSCAPINGNETWORk.COM COLuMNIST
grand eLevationA three-tiered stone wAterfAll And vAnishing-edge pool creAte A lush setting for nAture’s beAuty
d E s i g n i n s p i R aT i O n
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owner shared this concern with us, but we convinced him to wait and see
how the landscaping affected the appearance,” says Cipriano
Another challenge was how to use plantings to “soften” the 1,000 tons of
stone. “When you’re working with massive amounts of stone, the landscap-
ing is crucial to blend the structure into its surroundings. Without a full,
diverse landscape, this pool’s waterfalls and natural vanishing edge would
look like a backyard rock quarry,” says Cipriano.
Installing the huge pieces of stone for the waterfalls and natural vanish-
ing edge was also no small feat. “They were difficult to lift because of the
awkward shape. Their height and lack of width forced us to make sure that
they would not tip over during construction. usually large, heavy boulders are
pretty secure once they hit the ground, but these stones took more careful
consideration,” says Cipriano.
landscaping sOluTiOns
Hundreds of blooming perennials and ornamental grasses were planted to
contrast the stiffness of the stone with soft, flowing texture year-round. “Our
primary concern was to balance the earthy colors and rigid structure of the
stone with vibrant colors and soft, wispy textures,” says Cipriano. “As water
flows over the stone outcroppings, beautiful plantings fill each and every
crevice of the stone, weaving in and out to balance the landscape with the
hardscape.” The plantings include irises, Black-Eyed Susans, hostas, salvia,
and ornamental grasses. The natural swimming pool and terraced plantings
also integrate nicely with the tall trees behind the waterfalls.
To mimic the natural outcroppings of the Palisades overlooking the Hudson
River, Cipriano Landscape Design used real Palisades stone and Pennsyl-
vania chunk sandstone for the waterfalls, setting the stones vertically. The
spa adjacent to the pool patio has a veneer of 2-inch limestone capped with
template-cut Tennessee Crab Orchard flagstone. The patio is paved with
the same flagstone, set on a 6-inch engineered concrete slab with a pinning
system that prevents vertical movement.
landscapE pROfEssiOnal
Cipriano Landscape Design / Mahwah, N.J.
website: www.plantnj.com
ProjeCt highLights
LoCation: saddle river, n.j.
intended use: As a private retreat and as a luxurious space to
entertain large gatherings of people.
feAtUres: two 7-foot waterfalls, vanishing-edge swimming
pool, spa, flagstone patios, outdoor fireplace, full-service
outdoor kitchen, koi pond
AmoUnt of stone Used: 1,000 tons
awards: new jersey Landscape Contractors association
residential design-build Achievement Award, new
jersey nursery and Landscape association award of
excellence, northeast spa & pool Association design Award,
association of Pool & spa Professionals international award of
excellence, mason contractors Association of America teAm
award (tribute to exemplary Achievements in masonry)
key design strAtegies > > >
• Use the landscape to integrate the hardscape seamlessly into
a natural setting.
• get inspiration from the surrounding topography, and
incorporate those ideas into your landscaping plans.
• balance natural beauty with sophistication.
• Use plants strategically to soften large expanses of
hardscaping.
64 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
Small. Square. Surrounded. These words sum up the challenges of this urban
garden. With every square inch of space counting and every detail on display,
designing this garden was no easy feat. When properly designed, an urban
garden can serve as a rare escape from the paved streets and high-rise
buildings with which most city dwellers are accustomed. No one knows this
truth better than Ive Haugeland of Shades of Green Landscape Architecture.
Haugeland recently designed this outdoor living space for a new home in the
Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco. Working closely with the home’s
architect and developer from the onset of the LEED Platinum project, she cre-
ated a sustainable garden that exudes contemporary style and harmonizes
with the architecture and surrounding city.
dEsign gOals
This was a high-end spec house, so the developer wanted a garden that
would appeal to a wide variety of buyers. The garden’s style also had to
blend seamlessly with the interior so that it would feel like a true extension of
the home. Privacy was a primary concern. “The garden is almost completely
surrounded on all sides by four-story buildings,” says Haugeland.
cREaTing pRiVacy
Enclosing the entire space with solid fencing would have blocked what little
sunlight was available. So Haugeland installed tall ipe fences with rows of
bamboo planted against them, and used tempered glass panels for a portion
of the fence to allow light to pass through. “Since the glass is opaque, light
comes through beautifully into the garden,” she says. Glass also holds up
better outdoors than resin panels, because it will not fade, change shape or
scratch.
making a small spacE wORk
Haugeland approached this project with the notion that simple is best.
Originally from Norway, her modern and simplistic Scandinavian style was
just right for this garden. In order to maximize the use of space, she kept the
patio, lawn and planting beds square. “In a garden this size, round shapes
create leftover, wasted spaces,” cautions Haugeland.
by saRaH TaTE / LANDSCAPINGNETWORk.COM COLuMNIST
city escapeA smAll outdoor living spAce serves As An extension of A sAn frAncisco home
d E s i g n i n s p i R aT i O n
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The patio features custom permeable limestone pavers with little triangles
cut out. To allow water to pass through, the pavers were set on sand and
the triangular spaces filled with gravel. “The patio has a nice graphic pattern
when viewed from the floors above,” Haugeland says.
The fire pit and fountain are the stars of this urban garden. The gas-burning
fire pit is filled with ceramic fire spheres, which provide a nice contrast to
the square shapes throughout the garden. “We left the fire pit flush with the
patio and lawn rather than raising it up from the ground, so that it would not
dominate the space,” says Haugeland. At night, the fire pit becomes a focal
point, reflecting its light in the glass fence.
The fountain was made of concrete containing recycled glass. Although the
fountain is quite large for such a little garden, Haugeland explained that the
garden was in need of something to anchor it, and that is exactly what the
fountain does. It also provides lovely sound and transforms the city garden
into an oasis.
This home also has a rooftop outdoor living space, complete with a fire
feature and barbecue specified by the building’s architect. But perhaps the
best part is the unobstructed view of the Golden Gate Bridge. “The home
was built in a way that would easily support the weight of a rooftop living
space,” says Haugeland. The biggest challenge was complying with the city’s
height restrictions. “We had to be very careful to select low-growing plants,
because we couldn’t go above the height of the railings,” she explains.
In order to ensure universal appeal, Haugeland stuck with a simple color pal-
ette for the hardscape and plant material. “using all green plants created a
mellow atmosphere in the small space,” she says. Her technique for the con-
tainers was simple: use only one or two plant species and vary the texture.
All in all, this garden overcame many design challenges. It is now a modern
space that will work for whoever purchases the home. There are areas for
sophisticated gatherings, yet just enough lawn for pets or kids. The fire pit
invites people to gather for conversation and laughter. “I imagine the owners
sliding open the glass doors and letting their friends and family move freely
between indoors and out,” Haugeland says.
landscapE pROfEssiOnal
Shades of Green Landscape Architecture / Sausalito, Calif.
website: www.shadesofgreenla.com
Photography: Ive Haugeland & Paul Dyer
ProjeCt highLights
LoCation: san francisco
size: 785 square feet
Leed Platinum project with sustainable features, including
fsc-certified brazilian ipe fences, permeable paver patio,
concrete fountain with recycled glass aggregates, and a no-
mow, low-water lawn
PLant List
• weaver’s bamboo
• leopard bamboo
• cast iron plant
• small cape rush
• myer’s asparagus fern
• snake plant
• baby’s tears
• succulents – aeonium, agave, dudleya, echeveria
• feather reed grass
Ive Haugeland is a principal of Shades of Green Landscape Architecture. Beginning her career with a Master’s degree from the Agricultural University of Norway, Haugeland is an internationally-known and award-winning landscape architect. Her Scandinavian style reflects a modern simplicity in her creative designs which are showcased throughout LandscapingNetwork.com. Ive also collaborated on a series of online videos for LandscapingNetwork.com that feature her creative designs with her insightful commentary about her design process, construction tips and techniques. See more pictures of her work, and watch her collection of videos at LandscapingNetwork.com/ivehaugeland.
ive hAUgelAnd’s inflUence
68 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
After returning from a tropical Hawaiian vacation, this family wanted to
recreate the resort-like atmosphere in their own backyard. They were
inspired most by a large rope swing on which they had swung into the pool
at their hotel. When they first approached Scott Cohen of The Green Scene,
a swimming pool, landscape design and construction company based
in Northridge, Calif., they wanted—in addition to the rope swing—large
faux boulders, bamboo accents and tropical plants. Since this theme was
not in keeping with the home’s Spanish architecture, Cohen suggested a
Mediterranean-style landscape instead. The owners embraced his plan for
“La Hacienda de la Fiesta,” or The Party House, because it married their
memories of Hawaii with their home, property and lifestyle.
landscapE sOluTiOns
This yard had a steep hillside, which Cohen wanted to minimize by building
retaining walls and setting the pool and spa back into it. However, once The
Green Scene crews began excavating they hit solid rock. “We spent two
extra weeks chipping and chiseling away for the pool and a few more on
trenching for sprinklers,” explains Cohen. His advice to other contractors
is to include a “rock clause” in your contract that will protect your company
from having to take on the additional man-hour costs required if rocks are
encountered during the excavation of pools, walls, irrigation systems and
other features.
Another goal Cohen had for this project was to create distinct outdoor
rooms. “One of the best ways to separate outdoor spaces is by changing the
elevation,” he says. Cohen raised the spa 3 feet above the pool, which is also
industry standard for outdoor countertop height. Concrete countertops with
hand-seeded glass were added to the outer edges of the spa. “The bar tops
make it so everyone can be a part of the party, whether they are in the water
or not,” says Cohen. The spa accommodates up to eight people and has two
stools and a deep well with therapy jets. Water circulates from the spa to the
pool via a spillway tiled with 1-inch glass mosaic tiles. A fire pit located next
to the spa is gas burning and has built-in bench seating. Placing a fire pit
near a spa allows bathers to stay warm while drying off.
by saRaH TaTE / LANDSCAPINGNETWORk.COM COLuMNIST
party houseA boring bAckyArd is trAns-formed into An entertAiner’s delight—hAciendA style
d E s i g n i n s p i R aT i O n
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play TimE
One of the most unique aspects of this project is the bell tower and rope
swing. Cohen adapted this idea from the swing the clients had enjoyed in
Hawaii, which was supported by bamboo posts. “The tower took extensive
structural engineering and is 32 feet tall,” Cohen says. It rises 18 feet above
the water level, and extends down through 8 feet of water and 6 feet below
the pool shell, making it a sturdy structure that will be safe for swinging.
Swingers can jump from a 4-foot platform just behind the bell tower and
swing out into the deep end of the pool. To reflect the Spanish Hacienda
theme, the bell tower has terracotta roof tiles, white stucco, simulated-stone
veneer and cobalt blue tiles. The fun in this pool doesn’t stop with the swing.
There is also a 40-foot-long slide going down the hill and into the water.
The family had specifically requested that a basketball court be incorporated
into the design of their yard. upon determining that they would be playing
mostly in the afternoon, Cohen positioned the court in an east-facing location
so that they would not be shooting into the sun. The court is 30 by 40 feet
and has an epoxy rubberized coating from Plexipave covering the playing
surface. “This product comes in many colors, so you can match your court
to your home or go with the colors of your favorite team,” says Cohen. The
Green Scene brought in a specialty contractor to apply the coating because
it takes an experienced hand to get the surface level.
In addition to the basketball court, Cohen suggested a bocce ball court.
“A bocce court is a great way to make use of a side yard,” he explains. It’s
important to have proper drainage installed beneath a bocce court so that
standing water doesn’t turn the playing surface into a muddy mess. In this
case, Cohen used a French drain beneath the court. An 18-inch wall with
integrated light fixtures runs along one side of the bocce court to serve as
seating.
To avoid blocking views from inside the house, Cohen positioned the outdoor
kitchen and basketball court far off on opposite sides of the yard so that the
focal point would be the pool and bell tower.
All in all this active family got exactly what they wanted—a backyard where
they can play, cook, socialize, and relax with friends and family. Thanks to
The Green Scene, their new outdoor living space has transformed their home
into La Hacienda de la Fiesta. “Our yard is truly an entertainers’ delight,” say
the homeowners.
landscapE pROfEssiOnal
The Green Scene / Northridge, Calif.
website: www.greenscenelandscape.com
ProjeCt highLights
LoCation: thousand oaks, Calif.
Lot size: 26,000 square feet
Budget: $450,000 to $500,000
CLient requests
• outdoor kitchen
• Basketball court
• swimming pool
• water slide
• rope swing
• fire pit
MateriaLs
• Concrete pavers for the pool deck
• travertine pool coping and wall caps
• poured-in-place concrete countertops with embedded glass
• Cast concrete tile liners with a vintage garden pattern
• epoxy rubberized sport coating
• cobalt-blue glass mosaic tiles
Scott Cohen, owner of The Green Scene, is a nationally acclaimed garden artisan whose award-winning work is frequently featured on HGTV and in numerous national books and magazines. Scott partnered with LandscapingNetwork.com to share his expertise in a series of videos online where he offers valuable tips and ideas for creating resort-like backyards. Get his insights about designing vanishing edge pools, tropical landscaping, incorporating game courts, and more. Check out his collection of videos, see more photos of his work, and read his articles at: LandscapingNetwork.com/scottcohen
scott cohen’s inflUence
72 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
This Zen-like residential courtyard blends multiple canvases of native
meadow plantings in a framework of concrete pavers that provide both
structure and pathways for circulation. Low planter walls add another level
of interest to the landscape while also serving as seat walls. While the pavers
encourage meandering, the clear destination spot for this serene space is
a cast-concrete water feature that echoes the square shape of the pavers,
creating a unified aesthetic.
cliEnT REquEsTs
The homeowners, whose children are now in college, have more time to
enjoy their yard and wanted a private garden retreat to fill the courtyard-like
space. What they didn’t want was a lawn. To satisfy their wishes, landscape
architect Joseph Huettl of Huettl Landscape Architecture designed a simple
intersecting grid of pavers that provides structure and circulation to a garden
of mixed plantings.
dEsign cHallEngEs
The sloped yard sits below a carport area on one side and a raised parking
area behind a fence to the north. A wet winter made some aspects of the
construction difficult. “We had to install additional subsurface drainage (a
12-inch-deep trench with perforated pipe and rock) to alleviate saturated
planting beds near the carport steps,” says Huettl. The yard also had existing
aviary cages along the side that had to be converted and incorporated into
the design plan.
dEsign sOluTiOns
Large 2x3-foot concrete pavers of two different colors were poured in place
to provide a structured layout for the garden beds. “The dark gray pavers
used a dust-on color so it could all be done in one pour. They were later acid
washed to match the texture of the integral colored water-washed beige
pavers,” says Huettl.
The focal point is the custom stucco-finished concrete water feature planted
with blue flag iris and surrounded by kangaroo paws and lavender. “A sitting
bench destination next to the water feature provides solace on warm
by annE balOgH / LANDSCAPINGNETWORk.COM COLuMNIST
Modern zenA custom wAter feAture And gArden beds frAmed by concrete pAvers creAte A serene Atmosphere
d E s i g n i n s p i R aT i O n
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 73
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2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 75
afternoons,” says Huettl. The L-shaped bench is made of ipe wood and has
hidden steel supports. Also enhancing this sitting nook is an upright, yellow
Charles Swanson Misu still-water vessel made of cast stone and planted with
water iris.
Huettl removed the aviary cages and repurposed their concrete footings to
use as planting beds for a row of citrus trees. Stucco was used to overlay
and blend the existing concrete walls with the new ones, which are poured
concrete finished with steel-troweled stucco.
As a substitute for a lawn, Huettl used meadow plantings of carex pansa,
a native sedge, enlivened by kangaroo paws. Three flowering crape myrtle
trees will provide afternoon shade for the house and an existing tile patio.
Plantings of catmint and erigeron, a perennial herb native to California, soften
the base of the trees.
With his blend of colorful meadow plantings, beautiful hardscaping and
soothing water features, Huettl created the perfect courtyard sanctuary for
his clients. “The homeowners love the new garden. Whether viewing the
water feature from the kitchen window, reading a book in the shade next to
the water feature, or picking the many varieties of citrus, the clients make
good use of the space,” he says.
landscapE pROfEssiOnal
Huettl Landscape Architecture / Walnut Creek, Calif.
website: www.huettldesign.com
ProjeCt highLights
LoCation: orinda, Calif.
Lot size: 3,000 square feet
notAble feAtUres: intersecting grid of colored concrete
pavers, sitting nook with a water feature and l-shaped bench,
stucco-finished concrete planter walls, garden beds of mixed
meadow plantings, raised bed of citrus, Charles swanson Misu
water bowl.
PLant List
• crape myrtle trees
• catmint
• erigeron
• carex pansa
• carex tumulicola
• kangaroo paws
• blue flag iris
• lavender
• penstemon (or “beard tongue”)
• phormium (new Zealand flax)
• citrus trees
• laurus nobilis
• miscanthus, morning light
• hemerocallis, bitsy
RESIDENCE
3' TABLE
RECTANGULAR PLANTER
FENCE REPLACEMENT (SEE 2/L7.1)IPE BENCH (SEE 4/L7.0)
CRUSED ROCK AREAS
INTEGRAL COLORED CONCRETE W/SAND-WASH FINISH (SEE 2/L7.0)
NEW SMOOTH STUCCO OVER EXISTINGCONCRETE WALL (SEE A/L7.0)
DEMO EXISTING LATTICE & INSTALL HORIZONTAL REDWOOD SLATS (SEE 2/L7.1)
NEW REDWOOD FENCE (SEE A/L7.0)
16" TALL RAISED WATERFEATURE (SEE 3/L7.0)
EXISTING DRIVEWAY TO REMAIN
DEMO WOOD FASCIA AND APPLYSTEEL TROWEL STUCCO
KEEP EXISTING CONCRETE &PLANT EXISTING PLANT
POCKETS (SEE A/L7.0)
(E) TILE
24" HIGH SMOOTH STUCCOWALL (SEE 1/L7.0)
SAW CUT ASPHALT TO CREATE 18" PLANTING AREA
REMOVE EXISTING WOOD & APPLY NEW SMOOTH STUCCO
(E) DECK
(E) DECK
(E) SPA
(E) WALK
(E) STAIRS
(E) STAIRS
(E) TILE
(E) WALK
NEW STUCCO OVER EXISTINGCONCRETE WALL (SEE 3/L7.1)
STILL-WATER FEATURE
PERSIMMON
PLUM
LIVE OAK
ELM
BLACKBERRY
LEMON
APRICOT
A'H'
Joseph Huettl, owner of Huettl Landscape Architecture, is an award-winning architect with more than 20 years of experience in the field. His work has been featured in the Sunset Western Landscaping Book and many other publications and newspapers. Joe partnered with LandscapingNetwork.com to share his insights in a series of videos online. There he offers incredibly useful tips and design explanations about creating mid-century modern landscapes, designing front yard remodels, incorporating backyard ponds and fountains, and more. See more pictures of his work, and watch his collection of videos at: LandscapingNetwork.com/josephhuettl
Joseph hUettl’s inflUence
76 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
yOuR sOuRcE fOR amazing
productspizza dEliVERy Calling all foodies! There’s nothing like the flavor of
a wood-fired pizza. Bring this Italian favorite to your own backyard with an
EarthStone Oven. These modular ovens can be integrated into any masonry
structure – stone, brick or stucco. Start working on your guest list and reci-
pes for a backyard pizza-making party as the days of normal barbecuing are
behind. www.earthstoneovens.com
aRT appREciaTiOn Water has long been a symbol of life. Think of an
oasis in the middle of the desert. Incorporating a fountain from sculptor Peter
Hanson will bring new life to your garden. His pieces emphasize the move-
ment of water over stone and the intriguing visuals and soothing sounds this
creates. These visuals and sounds will captivate people, birds and insects.
www.peterhansonsculpture.com
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 77
products
mOdERn cOnVEniEncE Are you tired of buying new patio furni-
ture every other year? Or maybe you hate lugging your outdoor chairs
into storage for the winter. The Sponeck Lounge will change all of that.
Made of fiber cement, this sleek chair and accompanying ottoman will
look perfect in a contemporary garden setting and will hold up for years
no matter the weather. Felt pads are available to add comfort and color.
www.green-form.com
dEckEd OuT Ipe decking is the rising star of gardens across the
country. Why, you ask? Because it’s a beautiful Brazilian that’s resistant
to rot and pests. Advantage Trim & Lumber Co. offers hand-selected ipe
which can be purchased directly. With their pre-grooved boards and the
recommended Ipe Clip, installation is fast and all the hardware is hidden.
www.advantagelumber.com
REcyclEd waRmTH Adding a fire pit to your backyard will encour-
age conversation and laughter. Currently we love the handcrafted Tahoe fire
feature from Raw urth Designs. Made from recycled steel, it has a smooth,
rich color and texture. You can choose from three patina finishes and four
specialty metal finishes. Fuel options include natural gas, propane or wood.
www.rawurth.com
78 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
ElOquEnT TOasT Next time you want to enjoy a glass of red wine in
front of the fireplace, do it outside. Perfect for warming up a chilly evening,
an outdoor fireplace from Designs by Garry will complete your outdoor living
room. Available in a variety of styles and finishes, these modular gas burning
fireplaces can be installed by two people in a short amount of time. Choose
from finished or contractor’s models that can be customized with veneers.
www.exteriorfireplaces.com
naTuRally gROundEd Installing a flagstone patio or pool deck
can be labor intensive and costly. These Flagmats from Real Stone
Source reduce the amount of cutting and fitting required and allow mul-
tiple stones to be laid at once. The natural stone mats can be installed on
a new patio or used to overlay an existing surface. Eight stone colors are
available. www.roxproducts.com pRimE TimE Have you ever wished you could watch the big game on the
patio? What about hosting a Wii golf tournament in the backyard? Skyvue
outdoor TVs, with their high definition LED display, anti-glare coating and
powerful speaker bar, make both of these possible. Mount your TV above an
outdoor fireplace, attach it to a pergola, or stand it on a counter. Screen sizes
range from 32" to 52". www.skyvue.com
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 79
fOOdiE’s faVORiTE This is the outdoor appliance for those of you
that love to cook but hate to grill. Now you can sauté, braise, grill, pan fry,
roast, poach, steam or toast in your backyard. The Affinity 30G Classic
Cooktop from Evo is designed to create a social cooking space. Without
a cumbersome hood and with no obvious front or back, this appliance
allows people to gather round and mingle with the cook. The circular
cooktop operates on natural gas or propane and has two temperature
zones. www.evoamerica.com
EcO-cOmfORT What do you do with 312 empty milk jugs? Turn them
into an awesome multi-purpose outdoor chair of course. The Racer Lounge
Chair from Loll Designs features a bleacher seat which doubles as a stand-
ing table, there’s also a storage trunk and a stainless steel bottle opener.
This eco-friendly and functional chair comes in seven playful colors. www.
lolldesigns.com
HOT cOnVERsaTiOn If you are looking to add warmth and atmo-
sphere to your outdoor living space, look no further. The Elevated Halo
Fire Pit, inspired by campfire gatherings, sits at a comfortable coffee table
height. Made from high-performance concrete, this fire pit will withstand the
elements and weather gracefully. This fire pit can be cast in twelve colors.
www.solusdecor.com
products
80 • landscapingNe t work.com • 2012
join the conversation:
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what do you think of this weathered gate? just right or in need of a paint job? •••••••••••••••••• 41 Just right•••••••• 12 Needs paint
are adirondack chairs a time-less garden classic or in need of reinventing? •••••••••••••• 17 A classic•••••••• 7 Need reinventing
what do you think of the pav-ing in this courtyard? Love the pattern or is it too busy?••••••••••••••• 19 Love it••••••••••• 12 Too busy
would you display this cork-screw sculpture in your yard?••••••••••••••• 22 Yes •••••• 9 No way
Check out this birch tree branch metal fence on rollers. wouldn’t it be cool to roll several together to fence off an area? •••••••••••••••••••••••• 75 likes••••••12 comments
retro items seem to be finding their way into gardens everywhere. is this a passing trend, or is retro here to stay?•••••••••••••••••• 44 likes•••••••• 15 comments
Check out this bachelor pad designed by Z freedman Landscape design.•••••••••••••••••• 24 likes•••••••• 11 comments
what shrub would you use to grow over a walkway and merge together the quickest? •••••••••••••••••• 46 likes•••••••• 22 comments
does the statement on this sign hold true in your neighborhood? •••••••••••••••••• 43 likes••••••••19 comments
what’s your take on this pair of outdoor tubs? ••••••••••• 25 likes•••••••••••••••••35 comments
interestinG Posts:
11%morespace
24% Outdoorliving
Elements (kitchen,
deck, pergola)
12%pond/
waterfall
12% fencing/
walls
41%pool/spaiF you couLd add one
thinG to your backyard what wouLd it be?
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 81
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Like us on Facebook! join the conversation and Get insPirinG ideas From Photos, videos, FeLLow Fans, and creative LandscaPes Found around the worLd!
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the story behind the projects…
2012 • landscapingNe t work.com • 83
the story behind the projects…
Getting an idea from a landscape photo is nice, but hearing the designer explain the
reasons behind their choices is even better. Now you can watch and learn from three award-
winning landscape designers in a series of educational landscape videos. LandscapingNetwork.
com partnered with Joseph Huettl of Huettl Landscape Architecture, Ive Haugeland of Shades
of Green Landscape Architecture, and Scott Cohen of The Green Scene to share their insights
and design inspirations from residential landscapes they’ve created. Filmed on location,
each video offers incredibly useful tips and behind-the-scenes information into the thought
processes, design choices and challenges each designer faced.
Watch. Learn. appLy.WatCh 125+ viDeoS onLine at: Landscapingnetwork.com/videos
topics include:Water Features & Ponds
Walkways
Decks
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Fire Pits
Tropical Design
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